This Architect Is Building a Monument for the World's Extinct Species

A bold reminder of mankind's lethal impact

We’re now living in what’s sometimes referred to as the sixth mass extinction—an era during which humans have contributed to the disappearance of nearly 1,000 ­species. There’s little sign that the crisis is slowing, so architect David Adjaye—best known for his work on the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo—created a towering reminder instead. “It’s a moment of sharp reflection on how we relate to nature,” says Adjaye. In 2011, he completed the design of the Mass Extinction Monitoring Observatory, to be built on the Isle of Portland, in southern England. During construction of the $40 million structure, sculptors will carve images of every known species that has ­vanished from the planet into the stones. Though the monument is tentatively slated to open in 2019, more blocks will be added as animals continue to go extinct. “The loss of biodiversity is a critical issue facing our world,” says Adjaye. “I’ve always believed that architecture is a tool to help us understand our relationship to our context.”

The Definitive Adventure Newsletter

Our Mission

To inspire active participation in the world outside through award-winning coverage of the sports, people, places, adventure, discoveries, health and fitness, gear and apparel, trends and events that make up an active lifestyle.